Bamboo Shoots

Huge edible wild growths of bamboo shoots are available in Chandel, Bishnupur Tamenglong Districts of Manipur.When these rich plant bioresources are properly value added could generate huge income of the region. Bamboo shoots find an important place in the south-east Asian cuisine. In north-east India, it is consumed either raw or processed because of its exotic taste and flavour. Bamboo shoots are low in fat and calories but rich in fiber with about 92.01% water. They are said to be anticancerous and antimicrobial; and are being scientifically tested at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU). They are effective in decreasing blood pressure, cholesterol and increasing appetite due to the presence of phytosterols. Shoots are used as raw material in the manufacture of steroidal drugs. They are used as extenders because they take on the flavour of the ingredients they are cooked with.

Health Benefits of Bamboo Shoots

The young shoots are particularly useful in stomach disorders as well. Pickled or cooked, they are even served as appetizers. Bamboo shoots also enhance the digestive action of the stomach. It is also beneficial in various types of stomach disorders. It is especially effective in treating diarrheal. The fresh juice of bamboo shoots can be used to kill intestinal worms.

Bamboo shoot soup can speed up the measles cycle in children. Having bamboo shoot soup, twice a day can speed up the appearance of measles rashes and so the recovery will also be fast. Bamboo shoots can also stimulate menstruation. It is also believed that bamboo shoots can also be used to induce labor in the last month of pregnancy. Bamboo shoots are rich in nutrients and low on calorie and fats. The shoots are also an excellent source of fibre. Considering the huge availability of this bio resource, there could be a good opportunity for investment if proper technologies for value addition could be adopted.